In Conclusion
Once you’ve narrowed down the features that are important to you, read a few reviews of brands and models that interest you. Manufacturers introduce new digital cameras all the time, but you can generally extrapolate from one model to others in the same line.
After you’ve weighed all the relative merits, do a gut check. It’s important to pick a camera that feels good to you. Does it fit comfortably in your hand? Does it suit your style? Does it make you happy?
One last thing to consider is where to buy your camera. You’ll often find the best prices online (Safe Online Digital Camera Shopping Guide) but you may find it easier to evaluate camera features with a hands-on approach. Also, if you need to return your camera, a local store is easier. Digital cameras are fragile electronic devices and even the best fail sometimes. Wherever you decide to shop, be sure it is a reputable retailer and check out the return policy before you buy.
My final advice: Once you have your new camera, play with it a bit, then take some time to scan the manual. Then play with the camera some more. Then read the manual again. As you use the camera and run into stumbling blocks, check the manual. That’s how you really master a camera. That, and taking a lot of pictures. Remember, the more photographs you take, the better you get – and the better your odds of getting great shots.
Read Patia’s blog and see her photography at www.PatiaStephens.com
Digital Camera Research & Shopping Resources:
Digital Camera User Reviews >>
Digital Camera Pro Reviews >>
Digital Camera Previews, Comparison & Editorial >>
Digital Camera Buyer’s Guides >>
Digital Camera Forum >>
Digital SLR Forum >>
Photography & Camera Glossary >>
Just wanted to say that in the 15 minutes I have spent on this site I have learned alot more about cameras than I did spending 3 hrs on photo.net this morning. If you are looking to purchase a camera then this is the place to learn about cameras before you buy